Why did state Rep. Daryl Metcalfe, R-12th, vote against House Bill 34? It appears that the bill mandates some conservation measures that were popularly supported by both sides of the House for buildings mostly owned or leased by the commonwealth. It passed the House by a 163-32 vote. The Republican-sponsored bill would save taxpayers’ money by making commonwealth-used buildings more energy efficient, since buildings account for about 41 percent of energy use, 73 percent of electricity consumption and 14 percent of water use. Conservation often is hailed as one of our greatest energy resources. As of this writing, Metcalfe has not responded regarding the reasoning behind his vote.